to be targeted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be targeted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something or someone that is the focus of attention, criticism, or an attack. Example: "The new policy seems to be targeted at reducing waste in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Poulter is also sure to be targeted by the Americans.

BBC

Even after Macpherson's findings, Brooks continued to be targeted.

The Guardian

There's a market out there to be targeted.

The Guardian - Tech

"It needs to be targeted at an individual".

The New York Times

You're not going to be targeted in or targeted out.

The New York Times

"But likewise, you don't want him to be targeted".

The New York Times - Sports

However, some off-peak fares are likely to be targeted.

The Guardian

It is to be targeted mainly at the nightclub market.

The Guardian - Business

Given these resource constraints, aid needs to be targeted carefully.

The Washington Post

This caused them to be targeted by insurgents as "collaborators".

The Guardian

Thousands more are expected to be targeted, he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be targeted", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is doing the targeting. This adds clarity and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "to be targeted" in a way that obscures who is doing the targeting. Always strive for clarity by specifying the agent, either directly or through contextual cues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be targeted" primarily functions as part of a verb phrase in the passive voice. It describes the state of being the recipient of a directed action, often implying intention or purpose. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be targeted" is a versatile and frequently used expression that indicates the state of being the focus of an action or intention. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is grammatically correct and applicable across various contexts, ranging from news reports and business strategies to scientific research and discussions of social issues. The phrase's register is typically neutral to professional, making it suitable for a wide array of writing styles. While "to be targeted" often carries a negative connotation, it can also be used objectively to describe a planned or directed focus. When using this phrase, ensure that the agent performing the targeting is clear to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be in the crosshairs

Implies being in a position to receive criticism or attacks.

to be singled out

Implies being chosen from a group, often for specific attention or treatment.

to be under scrutiny

Highlights the state of being carefully examined or investigated.

to be focused on

Indicates a concentration of effort or attention on something.

to be aimed at

Suggests a directed purpose or goal.

to be subjected to

Conveys undergoing a particular experience, often negative.

to be exposed to

Implies being open to influence or risk.

to be vulnerable to

Highlights a susceptibility to harm or attack.

to be predisposed to

Suggests a natural inclination or tendency.

to be susceptible to

Indicates a sensitivity or openness to influence.

FAQs

How can I use "to be targeted" in a sentence?

You can use "to be targeted" in a sentence to indicate that someone or something is the focus of an action, like in the sentence "Specific demographics were "more likely to be targeted" by the advertising campaign".

What are some alternatives to "to be targeted"?

Alternatives to "to be targeted" include phrases like "to be aimed at", "to be focused on", or "to be singled out", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "to be targeted" and "to be aimed at"?

"To be targeted" often implies a deliberate selection for a specific purpose, while "to be aimed at" suggests a more general direction or intent. The difference lies in the precision and intention behind the action.

Is it always negative to say something or someone is "to be targeted"?

Not necessarily. While "to be targeted" often carries a negative connotation, implying a threat or attack, it can also be neutral, simply meaning something is being focused on for a specific reason. Context is key to determining the tone.